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Have you ever wanted to toss your boss off a bridge?
If so, here’s your chance!
On October 1st, you and your coworkers can have some friendly fun at WildPlay Nanaimo’s first annual ‘Toss the Boss’ event.
The event, brought to you by Victoria Brain Injury Society, Nanaimo Brain Injury Society, & WildPlay, raises money for brain injury survivors and their families.
WildPlay calls this event “a one-of-a-kind opportunity to do something you have only ever dreamed about…”
Not only is it a great way to raise money, it is also a perfect team building experience for employees.
To get involved, form a company team and nominate your boss for the bungy jump.
Register your team online, including the boss nominee and any other teammates wishing to participate in the fundraiser.
Get organized and raise a minimum of $500 as a team to go toward the cause.
On jump day, each team will be given a time slot to do their bungy jump!
If, the day of, the boss chickens out, the company team will then be required to double its donation.
Don’t give them a hard time, however, as the boss will have the choice of forfeiting the jump entirely or volunteer an unlucky co-worker to take their place!
The more you raise, the more incentives and prizes there are to be won!
Teams that raise $750 will also be given super soakers to drench their boss mid-bungy, making the experience even more unforgettable.
Teams that raise $1000 will get to bungy-DUNK their boss into the freezing water below.
Teams that raise $2000 will get to do BOTH!
Top fundraisers will also win extra prizes. The top individual fundraiser will win a mountain bike donated from Westshore Bikes and the top team will receive a Day at WildPlay!
A Brentwood Bay resident’s life just got a whole lot greener.
Pena Elliot won over $600 grand at the end of August after one final spin at the MegaJackpots Siberian Storm slots.
“I was on one of my last spins before I was about to quit playing,” admits Elliot, who won the jackpot prize on August 29th.
“But I remembered the rules of Siberian Storm and saw the five icons go across, and I thought that I had won the jackpot. So I clicked ‘continue’ and noticed the jackpot had reset. That’s when I was pretty sure that I actually hit the jackpot.”
Elliot called BCLC’s customer support the next day and they confirmed his win.
Now, Elliot says he wants to put his winnings to help a close family member build a completely sustainable, green house with solar panels on one of the Gulf Islands.
That sure is a lot of green!
*Note: Victoria Buzz is not affiliated with BC Lottery Corporation and does not advocate gambling or taking part in lotteries. If you choose to participate, remember to play responsibly.
During a COVID-19 press conference today, BC health officials announced that in order to prevent an overrun ICU in the Northern Health region, they would be opening five ICU beds on Vancouver Island and ten beds in the Lower Mainland.
Also during the conference, on whether Northern BC COVID-19 response could end up similar to what is happening in Alberta, Dr. Bonnie Henry said that BC is not at the same point as our neighbours to the east.
Henry also noted that due to BC’s current COVID-19 response, the province would not be able to handle taking on Alberta residents into their ICU care.
“We are not at a breaking point [like Alberta]. We are in a different place. But sadly, as a country, especially in BC, we cannot take people from Alberta into our [BC’s] ICU care,” Dr. Bonnie Henry said.
This begs the question of where Vancouver Island health services are at.
Earlier this month, Victoria Buzz reported a story about a father pleading for people to get vaccinated after his son was waiting for an ICU bed at the Royal Jubilee Hospital ICU due to what he saw was overrun with COVID-19 cases.
“He [Joel] is in a coma, and they’ve tried bringing him out. He’s still in CCU, and he’s on a ventilator. He’s just waiting for a bed in the ICU,” Roberts said.
“Before he had his episode, I felt that yes, people need to get vaccinated. But this has made that sentiment stronger. Stop thinking about yourself and start thinking about everyone else.”
Victoria Buzz spoke to Island Health to get a better grasp of how Vancouver Island has been handling this fourth wave of the pandemic, and how ICUs in Victoria are holding up.
A representative for Island Health confirmed that they are seeing an increasing impact on hospitals and critical care units amidst the fourth wave.
They said that since the beginning of the pandemic, Royal Jubilee, Victoria General, and Nanaimo Regional General hospitals were the core facilities supporting COVID-19 patients.
Despite occupancy varying day-to-day, last week’s average occupancy of critical care beds was 73%, according to Island Health. In comparison, Alberta’s ICU capacity is 88%.
In order to support additional critical care needs beyond base capacity Island Health has now implemented surge critical care beds and an inpatient unit at Victoria General Hospital for non-critical care patients.
In a statement to Victoria Buzz, Island Health expressed their willingness to do what they can to support the province, but also acknowledged what British Columbians could do as well: get vaccinated.
“In addition to supporting the increasing critical care needs of Vancouver Island residents, we have supported over a dozen critical care patients from other health authorities,” the Island Health representative told Victoria Buzz.
“Our health-care teams need every eligible resident of Island Health to get vaccinated today if they haven’t already, and follow public health guidance, in order to protect our health-care system and our teams.”
As of this publication, 87% of all eligible British Columbians have been vaccinated and there are currently 540 active cases on Vancouver Island.
Of the 353 British Columbians who have been hospitalized from September 6th to September 19th due to COVID-19, 279 (79%) were unvaccinated.
The suspect approached the woman during transit and committed a sexual assault.
Both the woman and the man exited the bus at the Royal Oak Exchange, where she was reportedly followed for a short time by the suspect before he disappeared.
Police said the woman was not physically injured during the incident.
The suspect has since been released with conditions and a court date for later this year.
While Canada has been accepting American citizens across the land border for nearly a month now, and the Clipper made its grand return to Victoria from Seattle this past weekend, the US will not be returning the favour for at least another month.
On Monday, The White House overhauled some of its international travel restrictions, like loosening restrictions for fully-vaccinated foreign travellers flying into their country for November, but leaving in place a now 19-month ban on travel across the Canada-US. land border.
Until at least October 21st, Canadians looking to travel recreationally across the land borders will be stopped and told to head back home.
The new policy, announced on Monday, will no longer limit travelers from specific countries like the UK, China and India.
The US also released other travel restrictions for their own citizens on Monday that echo similar to Canada’s guidelines, this includes any unvaccinated Americans needing to be tested one day before traveling to or leaving the US and fully vaccinated passengers not needing to complete a quarantine upon arrival or departure.
For some, this is welcome news. The US and Canada are currently dealing with a vicious fourth wave, mostly affecting the unvaccinated.
But for others, it is just another devastating blow to a sense of normalcy for what is almost two years of hard work and restrictions meant to aid the fight against COVID-19.
In the past week, from September 13th to 19th, of the 4,367 people who tested positive for COVID-19 in BC, 68.3 per cent were unvaccinated while 7.8 per cent were partially vaccinated.
(Dr. Bonnie Henry/Province of British Columbia, Flickr)
The BC Ministry of Health reported 525 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, September 21st.
There have been 180,178 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 51
Fraser Health: 187
Island Health: 61
Interior Health: 147
Northern Health: 79
Resident outside Canada: 0
There are currently 5,282 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
172,624 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 332 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 155 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
1 new person has died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll at 1,900.
Data by Vaccination Status:
From September 13th to 19th, people not fully vaccinated accounted for 76.1% of cases . From September 6th to 19th, they accounted for 84.7% of hospitalizations.
Past week cases (Sept. 13-19):
Total: 4,367
Not vaccinated: 2,982 (68.3%)
Partially vaccinated: 340 (7.8%)
Fully vaccinated: 1,045 (23.9%)
Past two weeks cases hospitalized (Sept. 6-19):
Total: 353
Not vaccinated: 279 (79%)
Partially vaccinated: 20 (5.7%)
Fully vaccinated: 54 (15.3%)
Past week, cases per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (Sept. 13-19):
Not vaccinated: 290.3
Partially vaccinated: 87.2
Fully vaccinated: 26.3
Past two weeks, cases hospitalized per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (Sept. 6-19):
Not vaccinated: 39.8
Partially vaccinated: 8.2
Fully vaccinated: 1.2
After factoring for age, people not vaccinated are 33.1 times more likely to be hospitalized than those fully vaccinated.
Outbreaks
There has been one new health-care facility outbreak at Victoria Chinatown Care Centre (Island Health).
There are a total of 22 active outbreaks, including:
Long-Term Care: Northcrest Care Centre, Westminster House, Menno Terrace East (Fraser Health), Arbutus Care Centre, Louis Brier Home and Hospital (Vancouver Coastal Health), Village at Mill Creek – second floor, Cottonwoods Care Centre, Brookhaven Care Centre, Spring Valley Care Centre, Kamloops Seniors Village, Hillside Village, The Hamlets at Westsyde, Joseph Creek Care Village, Overlander (Interior Health), Jubilee Lodge (Northern Health) and Victoria Chinatown Care Centre (Island Health)
Acute Care: Chilliwack General Hospital (Fraser Health), Fort St. John Hospital (Northern Health) and Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (Interior Health)
Assisted or Independent Living: David Lloyd Jones, Sun Pointe Village and Hardy View Lodge (Interior Health)
Island Health:
Island Health reported 61 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 540 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 319 │Total Cases: 3273
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 181 │ Total Cases: 3576
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 40 │Total Cases: 1051
32 people remain in hospital with 16 in ICU.
There have been no new deaths in the Island Health region today, and a total of 58 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
87% of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 79.5% received their second dose.
In addition, 87.5% of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose and 80.4% received their second dose.
To date, 7,725,586 (+14,280) doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC; 3,685,799 (+6,618) of which are second doses.
(Missing Zenaeh Edwards-Helgason/Photo by West Shore RCMP)
Update:VicPD reported on Wednesday morning that Zenaeh has been located and is safe.
VicPD are asking for the public’s help locating a high-risk missing youth.
Zenaeh Edwards-Helgason was last seen on Monday, September 13th.
Zenaeh is described as a 16-year-old Caucasian girl with shoulder-length brown hair and brown eyes standing 5’5” with a slender build, weighing approximately 115 pounds.
Officers do not believe Zenaeh is at immediate risk of harm, but the circumstances involving her disappearance, including her age, are high-risk.
VicPD is asking that if you see Zenaeh Edwards-Helgason, please call 911.
Anyone with information on where Zenaeh may be should call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.
In a live press conference today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry addressed the public’s confusion surrounding guidelines of contact tracing and self-isolation for fully-vaccinated British Columbians.
Previously, people who had been in contact with someone infected with COVID-19 were required to self-isolate for fourteen days as per BC Health Official guidelines.
Today, amendments to the guidelines were announced to take into account fully-vaccinated individuals and clear up any confusion.
Now, fully-vaccinated people who have been in contact with somebody infected with COVID-19 in a low-risk setting are NOT required to self-isolate for fourteen days.
However, Henry stressed that these people must take extra care in self-monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms that may arise.
If someone does start to experience COVID-19 symptoms, they are then required to both self-isolate and get tested for the virus.
The guidelines have only changed for full-vaccinated individuals who have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus.
As of this publication, there are 5,608 active cases of COVID-19 in the province with 558 of those being in the Island Health region.
On Saturday, September 18th, a serious collision involving two vehicles on Sooke Road resulted in the death of one man, while seriously injuring another.
The accident occurred just after 11:30 p.m. in the 3700-block of Sooke Road in Metchosin.
Following an investigation, it was determined a Mazda 3 travelling eastbound crossed the centre line and collided head-on with the other vehicle.
The driver of the Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the other vehicle, who has now been identified as Nick Grove, was left trapped in his vehicle by the collision. The Metchosin Fire Department worked quickly to free Grove and he was transported to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
According to the GoFundMe, at the time of the collision, Grove was driving home from doing what he loves, umpiring at Goudy Field in Langford.
The crash left Grove with injuries to his sternum, five broken ribs, bruises as well as trauma.
Since the crash Grove has been on oxygen.
Grove’s family is now seeking the public’s help via a GoFundMe set up for their son, and for those interested in donating, the link can be found here.
The family requests that Grove not be bombarded with questions, just continued support and love.
On Monday night, Grove posted a message on Facebook thanking everyone for the love and support. He also stated that he was focusing on healing “physically and mentally” to get home to his kids.
I love you all ThankYou from the bottom of my heart. There are no words to describe my love appreciation and gratitude ….
Many things are being learned in the midst of the pandemic, none so much as the importance of play.
Despite our best efforts, a recent study shared by Canadian Tire said that 277 million hours of organized sports activity was lost during the pandemic.
Unfortunately, most of those hours were taken from children in low-income households.
Canadian Tire reviewed research for over three periods of time – between the 2020 and 2021 school year until December, summer of 2020, and March to early July 2020. They noted that since capacities were limited amidst the pandemic, many kids were limited to their daily activity.
Typically, sixty minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per day is encouraged for children ages 5-19, where vigorous activity largely comes from structured play like organized sports.
Much of the world has changed since 2019, and while we’re still dealing with many changes, this change is one that no one wants to see.
Lost Hours:
“The impact of this is significant, and undoubtedly broad. The long-term physical and mental health impacts on our nation’s youth may not emerge for years,” Canada Tire said in a media release.
But researchers for Canadian Tire predict that this change may open up more opportunities as this shocking fact may restructure organized sports.
Less structured programming, promoting social connections over competition, steering away from contact sports, and more outside venues and sports will be such ways we can reorganize how we do organized sports.
Whatever it is, it’s sad to see kids not getting the play they deserve.
Some local sports organizations, such as the Saanich Peninsula’s PACE FC have stepped up to offer ‘at cost’ registration during these times, in hopes of making soccer accessible to anyone and everyone who wants to play.
They are able to provide this by having no paid coaches, consultants, or anyone within the club, municipal co-operation in use of fields, and sponsors and volunteers.
Though not an option for all organizations, it’s certainly a start.
Last night, a full Harvest Moon peaked over Vancouver Island.
Each year, the full moons in September and October fight for the title of “Harvest Moon”, with the full Moon that occurs nearest to the equinox winning the title.
If October’s full Moon occurs closer to the equinox than September’s, the September full moon is then referred to as the Corn Moon.
Since last night’s full moon peaked only two days before the fall equinox, it won the title of “Harvest Moon”.
The moon rose in the southeast and reached peak illumination just after sunset.
Thankfully, the weather was on our side for perfect viewing of the sky last night.
For those who may have missed it last night here are 15 photos of last night’s full Harvest Moon over Victoria:
With the Conservative Party winning the popular vote, and most parties maintaining their seats with either incremental or lateral changes, the Liberal Party has formed a minority government in the House of Commons by winning 158 ridings.
While mail-in ballots are still being counted, which may make a difference in a few BC ridings, most news outlets had projected a Liberal government before polls closed on the west coast.
Opposition Conservative party members have secured 119 seats, the Bloc Québécois has 34, the NDP has 25, and the Green Party has 2.
While very little changed compared to the 2019 election, there are small differences that are worth noting in BC.
In Nanaimo-Ladysmith, incumbent Green MP Paul Manly is trailing behind both the NDP candidate, Lisa Marie Barron, and Conservative candidate, Tamara Kronis, who are in a tight race to win the Nanaimo-Ladysmith seat in the House.
On the mainland, Vancouver-Granville, the former riding of Jody Wilson-Raybould, is in a deadlock between the NDP candidate, Anjali Appadurai, and the Liberal candidate, Taleeb Noormohamed.
Each are toggling between 33% and 34% and a recount will most definitely be needed to assure the winner.
All federal party leaders secured seats in their ridings with the exception of People’s Party of Canada leader Maxime Bernier and Green Party Leader Annamie Paul. ,
Bernier lost his seat for the second time in Beauce, Quebec, and Paul failed to win a seat in Toronto-Centre, coming fourth in standings.
Former Green Party leader Elizabeth May held the same seat she has since 2011, in the riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands, and Erin O’Toole held on to his seat in Durham, Ontario.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh won in his riding of Burnaby South.
Last night, Prime Minister Trudeau took to the podium to acknowledge his minority government win.
“I hear you when you say that you just want to get back to the things you love, to not worry about this pandemic or about the election, that you just want to know that your members of parliament of all stripes will have your back through this crisis, and beyond,” Trudeau said.
“The moment we face demands real important change, and you have given this parliament, and this government, clear direction.”
Trudeau concluded by echoing his platform and promises made during the election, including 10$ a day childcare, affordable housing, green jobs, reconciliation, and investments for the middle class.
Photo courtesy from Elections Canada Facebook page
While votes continue to be tallied in Canada’s 44th federal election, many ridings have already been determined or projected, including on Vancouver Island.
Like in 2019, Vancouver Island is seeing little change save the Nanaimo-Ladysmith riding where Green incumbent MP Paul Manly has dropped to third and now, Conservative MP Tamara Kronis is holding the lead and NDP Lisa Marie Barron is leading behind.
As predicted, an orange wave is currently sweeping Vancouver Island, with the NDP holding a strong lead.
In the Cowichan-Malahat-Langford riding NDP incumbent Alistair MacGregor has been re-elected for the third time since 2015.
NDP incumbent Randall Garrison has been re-elected in Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke – he’s held this seat since 2011.
NDP incumbent Laurel Collins appears to be maintaining her seat in Victoria for the second time.
In the riding of Courtenay-Alberni, NDP MP Gord Johns has been re-elected and Rachel Blaney will be re-elected in the North Island-Powell River riding.
Former Green Party leader, Elizabeth May, has been re-elected in her riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands. She has held the seat since 2011.
Liberal party leader and incumbent Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been re-elected in his electoral district of Papineau, Quebec and is being projected to lead a minority government similar to that of 2019.
Several outlets, including CBC, are projecting a minority Liberal government, while many votes are still being tallied, including mail-in ballots.
Liberal party leader and incumbent Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also been re-elected in his electoral district of Papineau, Quebec.
The win echoes similar to the Liberals win in 2019, but nowhere near the majority win from 2015.
While this is a win for the Liberal Party of Canada, it is a loss for Justin Trudeau who called the snap election for the hopes of pulling a majority government.
Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, Erin O’Toole, retains his seat of Durham.
Meanwhile Green Party leader Elizabeth May is projected to win in her riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands, but Green Party leader Annamie Paul will lose in the Toronto-Centre riding.
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh is projected to win his riding of Burnaby South.
For the second time, People’s Party leader Maxime Bernier has lost in Beauce, Quebec to Conservative Party candidate Richard Lehoux.
As of this publication, the Liberal Party holds 156 seats while Conservatives hold 123, NDP has 28, and Green Party holds 2 seats.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 1,692 new cases of COVID-19 for a three-day period on Monday, September 20th.
There have been 179,646 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
Day-to-Day Breakdown:
Friday-Saturday: 644
Saturday-Sunday: 613
Sunday-Monday: 435
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 239
Fraser Health: 533
Island Health: 204
Interior Health: 371
Northern Health: 345
Resident outside Canada: 0
There are currently 5,608 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
171,769 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 307 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 156 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
11 new people have died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll at 1,899.
Data by Vaccination Status:
From September 10th to 16th, people not fully vaccinated accounted for 76.3% of cases. From September 3rd to 16th, they accounted for 85.0% of hospitalizations.
Past week cases (Sept. 10-16):
Total: 4,749
Not vaccinated: 3,268 (68.8%)
Partially vaccinated: 355 (7.5%)
Fully vaccinated: 1,126 (23.7%)
Past two weeks cases hospitalized (Sept. 3-16):
Total: 401
Not vaccinated: 319 (79.6%)
Partially vaccinated: 22 (5.5%)
Fully vaccinated: 60 (15.0%)
Past week, cases per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (Sept. 10-16):
Not vaccinated: 313.7
Partially vaccinated: 91.6
Fully vaccinated: 28.6
Past two weeks, cases hospitalized per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (Sept. 3-16):
Not vaccinated: 44.9
Partially vaccinated: 8.7
Fully vaccinated: 1.4
After factoring for age, people not vaccinated are 32.2 times more likely to be hospitalized than those fully vaccinated.
Outbreaks
There has been one new health-care facility outbreak at Overlander (Interior Health).
There are a total of 21 active outbreaks, including:
Long-Term Care: Northcrest Care Centre, Westminster House, Menno Terrace East (Fraser Health), Arbutus Care Centre, Louis Brier Home and Hospital (Vancouver Coastal Health), Village at Mill Creek – second floor, Cottonwoods Care Centre, Brookhaven Care Centre, Spring Valley Care Centre, Kamloops Seniors Village, Hillside Village, The Hamlets at Westsyde, Joseph Creek Care Village, Overlander (Interior Health) and Jubilee Lodge (Northern Health)
Acute Care: Chilliwack General Hospital (Fraser Health), Fort St. John Hospital (Northern Health) and Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (Interior Health)
Assisted or Independent Living: David Lloyd Jones, Sun Pointe Village and Hardy View Lodge (Interior Health)
Island Health:
Island Health reported 204 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 558 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 309 │Total Cases: 3245
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 203 │ Total Cases: 3564
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 46 │Total Cases: 1048
27 people remain in hospital with 16 in ICU.
There have been no new deaths in the Island Health region today, and a total of 58 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
To date, 86.8% of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 79.4% received their second dose.
In addition, 87.4% of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose and 80.2% received their second dose.
To date, 7,711,306 (+36,012) doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC; 3,679,181 (+19,686) of which are second doses.
If you were planning on filling up your gas tank tonight, you may want to wait a bit longer before fuelling up.
Tomorrow, the annual ‘Fuel Good Day’ event returns to Victoria, giving Peninsula Co-op customers an opportunity to help a local charity and win a 2-night staycation just for fuelling up.
During ‘Fuel Good Day’, five cents from every litre of fuel sold at any of the Peninsulas Co-op’s 18 gas centres will be donated to Help Fill a Dream.
One lucky person gassing up on Tuesday, September 21st will win a 2-night staycation courtesy of Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke.
Help Fill A Dream helps to provide financial assistance to support families with critically ill children so they can concentrate on health, care and recovery.
“We are so grateful for Fuel Good Day and the support it brings to Island families,” said Craig Smith, Executive Director at Help Fill A Dream.
“For 35 years, we have been making dreams come true for children with life-threatening / critical conditions. This has only been possible with the continued support of our community and incredible partners like Peninsula Co-op.”
Peninsula Co-op is a local co-operative with 18 gas centres with convenience stores located on Vancouver Island, with 12 of those just in the Greater Victoria region alone.
Since 1977, they’ve remained entirely locally owned and share profits with their 100,000 member-owners, community and staff.
A brand new community pantry opened in Langford over the weekend, bringing non-perishable food items to those passing by in the neighbourhood.
The “Little Free Pantry” was created by Becky Clark, her husband and a group of friends from their local church, who set out to find a way to add love to their own neighbourhood.
While not being able to attend church in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the group hoped to create something new that would benefit the neighbourhood and bring people together during a difficult and isolating time.
After becoming a member of the Facebook groups ‘Langford-Colwood Embrace’ and ‘How Can We Help Colwood/Langford’, Becky Clark was inspired by the generosity and kindness she saw from other group members supporting one another.
From this, the “Little Free Pantry” project was born.
The pantry was set up at 2878 Leigh Road (next to the Flute Lane parking lot), using materials bought from Restore and donated from other group members.
The pantry operates with the belief of “If you need something, take it. If you have extra, leave it”.
Visitors to the pantry can take a food item with them or leave a non-perishable item for the next traveller.
Many of the group’s children were also involved in the creation of the pantry, “It helps them learn compassion, generosity and kindness,” Clark said, “They are so excited to check the pantry each day and keep it tidy!”
The Little Free Pantry is located at 2878 Leigh Road (next to the Flute Lane parking lot).
Over the course of the pandemic, many have made significant additions to neighbourhoods across Victoria to create a stronger sense of community
As Canadians cast their ballot across the country today, polls from this past weekend have the Liberals and Conservatives in a close race.
According to the poll from Research.Co, the Conservatives are dominating in Saskatchewan and Manitoba (43%, with the NDP at 23%) and Alberta (50%, with the NDP at 21%), while the Liberals are polling strong in Atlantic Canada (42%, with the Conservatives at 27%), Quebec (34%, with the Bloc at 31%) and Ontario (37%, with the Conservatives at 30%).
When Canadians were asked which of the five leaders would make the best Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau remained ahead of Conservative leader Erin O’Toole, but NDP leader Jagmeet Singh had the highest approval rating of all the leaders.
Since the start of the campaign, one-in-four Canadians reported having an improved opinion of both Singh (26%) and O’Toole (25%). The proportions were significantly lower for Trudeau (16%).
Recently, former President Barack Obama endorsed Justin Trudeau while popular senator, Bernie Sanders, endorsed NDP leader Jagmeet Singh.
Wishing my friend @JustinTrudeau the best in Canada’s upcoming election. Justin has been an effective leader and strong voice for democratic values, and I’m proud of the work we did together.
Pfizer and BioNTech announced successful trials with their COVID-19 vaccine in five- to 11-year olds and that they will be appealing to Health Canada to authorize their vaccine.
“We are pleased to be able to submit data to regulatory authorities for this group of school-aged children before the start of the winter season,” said Dr. Ugur Sahin, CEO and co-founder of BioNTech.
“The safety profile and immunogenicity data in children aged 5 to 11 years vaccinated at a lower dose are consistent with those we have observed with our vaccine in other older populations at a higher dose.”
The newly-named Comirnaty vaccine (also known as the Pfizer vaccine) is based on mRNA technology and was administered to children during trials using a similar two-dose regimen administered 21 days apart. Pfizer and BioNTech said their COVID-19 vaccine trials have induced a robust immune response in elementary-school aged children.
Children received a smaller dose – about more than a third – than those aged 12 and older.
In a written statement, Pfizer and BioNTech said that the smaller dose was carefully selected as the preferred dose for safety, tolerability and immunogenicity.
These are the first results from a trial of a COVID-19 vaccine in this age group.
With pediatric cases of COVID-19 having risen about 240 percent in the US, Pfizer and BioNTech said that they plan to urgently submit authorization to the FDA and other regulators, including Health Canada.
News comes as the Delta variant infects more and more unvaccinated Canadians and school goes back to in-person teaching.
Tonight, two days before the fall equinox, a full Harvest Moon will rise over Victoria.
Each year, the full moons in September and October fight for the title of “Harvest Moon”, with the full Moon that occurs nearest to the equinox winning the title.
This moon rises at the same time, around sunset, for several evenings.
If October’s full Moon occurs closer to the equinox than September’s, the September full moon is then referred to as the Corn Moon.
Look for the Harvest Moon to rise in the southeast, reaching peak illumination just after sunset.
Thankfully, the forecast shows a break from rain, just in time to view the full moon. Tonight, the sky looks mostly clear with a few clouds.
Full Harvest Moon
When: Evening of September 20th
Where: Look up toward the southeastern sky after sunset
If you’re into the hustle and bustle that’s the booming hospitality industry here in Victoria, we’ve got the perfect place for you!
Nautical Nellies Steak & Seafood House is nestled in the popular downtown dining district of Victoria, just steps away from the inner harbour. The award-winning eatery has been voted as #1 “Best of the City” for Seafood and Steak and has been awarded the Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence”.
The restaurant is currently on the hunt for passionate individuals who are in search of a permanent, full-time position that comes with a ton of added perks and bonuses – including unlimited freshly baked chocolate chip cookies!
After 25 years in business, Nautical Nellies still prides themselves on being a family-run business with strong roots in the Victoria community, and are looking for talented staff to become a part of that family.
Multiple positions available
Nautical Nellies is currently hiring for the following:
Servers
Bartenders
Host/hostesses
Sushi Chef
Front of House Supervisor / Server
Line Cooks
Dishwashers
Job perks working at Nautical Nellies Restaurant
Health, dental and life insurance (includes chiropractic and massages)
One of the best staff menus around at a huge discount when on shift
Staff discount offered for employees + 1 when you come in to dine
Paid overtime
Two consecutive days off work for our full-time employees
One of the best annual Christmas parties
Unlimited freshly baked chocolate chip cookies for staff
Occasional wine tastings/wine training sessions for our staff
A positive and respectful work environment
Wages for each position depend on experience, but are negotiable for the right candidate.
Interested applicants can apply by emailing jeff@nauticalnelliesrestaurant.com.
In a Sunday release, Island Health has declared an outbreak at the Victoria Chinatown Care Centre long-term care home.
To date, two cases of COVID-19 have been identified within the care home.
All thirty one residents as well as staff are being tested for COVID-19. Communication with residents, family and staff is ongoing.
According to Island Health, the following steps have been taken as part of the outbreak response at the home:
COVID-positive residents have been isolated to their rooms;
All social visitation, admissions and transfers have been stopped;
Enhanced cleaning protocols and use of personal protective equipment;
Island Health continues to support the outbreak response;
Staffing levels and supply of personal protective equipment are being closely monitored and Island Health is supporting where needed, to ensure safe resident care continues
The most recent COVID-19 outbreak in Victoria occurred at Sunset Lodge which is now over.
During that outbreak, 6 people succumbed to the virus. In total 15 staff and 21 residents tested positive for the virus.
The origin of the Victoria Chinatown Care Centre outbreak is still under investigation.
A collision involving two vehicles on Sooke Road Saturday night resulted in the death of a 53-year-old man and injuring another one.
On Saturday, September 18th, just after 11:30 pm, West Shore RCMP responded to a motor vehicle collision in the 3700-block of Sooke Road in Metchosin.
Following an investigation, it was determined that a grey Mazda 3 was travelling eastbound when it crossed the centre line and collided head-on with a grey Ford F-150.
The 53-year-old driver of the Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene by attending paramedics.
Police said the 39-year-old driver of the Ford F-150 was trapped in his vehicle and had to be extracted by the Metchosin Fire Department.
He was then transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
“Traffic had to be diverted at the time for several hours to allow collection of evidence and determining the leading causes of the collision,” said Cst. Alex Bérubé, spokesperson for the West Shore RCMP.
The BC Highway Patrol Traffic Analyst and the BC Coroner are assisting with the investigation.
Anyone with information to this collision is asked to contact the West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264.
All registered voters must bring either one piece of government-issued ID, or two pieces of ID that both have their name and at least one with a current address, or declare their identity and address in writing and have a witness to vouch for their identity at the polling station.
Here’s how to find out where to go to cast your ballot:
Five people were arrested after the Victoria Police chief was assaulted during a Chantel Moore memorial at the BC Legislature on Saturday.
The incident, which was captured on video, occurred just after 2 p.m. at a memorial event honouring Chantel Moore, an Indigenous woman from British Columbia who was killed by New Brunswick police during a wellness check in 2020.
Chief Del Manak was invited by Chantal Moore’s family to participate in the ceremony for her, and was blanketed according to an Indigenous custom. Manak was also asked to provide a speech.
Following his remarks, while he was observing the remainder of the ceremony, a woman walked up and poured liquid down Manak’s back from behind.
Police said that he was not physically harmed.
The assault was captured on video and when officers approached the suspect, she was surrounded by a group of other individuals, who then swarmed VicPD officers.
Police say five people were arrested and taken into custody, and don’t believe the suspects involved in the incident took part in organizing the Chantel Moore memorial event.
Following the incident, Mayor Lisa Helps Mayors Helps and Desjardins, released a joint statement condemning the assault and the ongoing violence towards police officers, which has escalated as of late.
“As Co-chairs of the Victoria-Esquimalt Police Board we are upset and saddened by this act. It is unacceptable. We recognize that there is a long history of mistrust between police in Canada and Indigenous communities,” the statement read.
“We know that there is a lot of healing to do. That is precisely why the Chief was invited by Moore’s family to participate in the memorial; he has been working closely with them since her death and they immediately and publicly denounced this act of violence against the Chief Manak.”
“We call on everyone in the community to stand down from attacks and to express differences of opinion respectfully and in a way that will help to build understanding and allow much needed-healing to happen.”
The five suspects arrested in the incident have since been released and are awaiting court dates, according to an update by VicPD.
A fleet of water taxis and emergency response vessels greeted the Clipper as it entered Victoria’s Inner Harbour today.
After eighteen months, the sailing marked the vessel’s first trip with passengers since pre-pandemic.
Along the Inner Harbour, many people gathered to cheer on the vessel.
For many in attendance, the return of the Clipper meant more than just the return of a Victoria staple, it meant reuniting with American family and friends they have not been able to see in nearly two years.
Although Canada has been welcoming American visitors through the border since early August, non-essential travel by Canadians into the states remains restricted. This is due to the current border closure, which has been extended until at least September 21st.
The Victoria Clipper plans to operate a four-day schedule over weekends and also add extra sailing around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons.
File Photo of cyclists on the Lochside Trail via www.crd.bc.ca
Saanich Police are looking for a suspect in an alleged sexual assault on Lochside trail.
In a media release, police say the incident occurred on the Lochside trail between 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Monday, September 6th.
The woman was walking north on the trail near Swan Street when she was approached from behind by the suspect who then committed a sexual assault.
The suspect was last seen walking north on the trail toward Saanich Road, though there were additional reports that he was seen on the trail near Darwin Avenue.
Despite searching the area following the offence, officers were unable to locate him.
The suspect is described as a Caucasian man, 5’6” tall and between 30 to 40 years old. He is said to have a stocky build and a sandy-coloured long beard.
At the time of the assault the suspect was described to be wearing a light coloured toque, pink shirt, blue jeans and to be carrying both a black backpack and black duffle bag.
The suspect is believed to use the Lochside and Galloping Goose Trail network.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Saanich Police Department at 250-475-4321.
You can also report anonymously through the Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
(Dr. Bonnie Henry/Province of British Columbia, Flickr)
The BC Ministry of Health reported 768 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, September 17th.
There have been 177,954 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 83
Fraser Health: 239
Island Health: 102
Interior Health: 183
Northern Health: 161
Resident outside Canada: 0
There are currently 6,031 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
169,653 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 298 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 135 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
11 new people have died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll 1,888.
Data by Vaccination Status:
From September 9th to 15th, people not fully vaccinated accounted for 75.9% of cases. From September 2nd to 15th they accounted for 86.2% of hospitalizations.
Past week cases (Sept. 9th to 15th):
Total: 4,804
Not vaccinated: 3288 (68.4%)
Partially vaccinated: 358 (7.5%)
Fully vaccinated: 1,158 (24.1%)
Past two weeks cases hospitalized (September 2nd to 15th):
Total: 384
Not vaccinated: 310 (80.7%)
Partially vaccinated: 21 (5.5%)
Fully vaccinated: 53 (13.8%)
Past week,cases per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (September 9th to 15th):
Not vaccinated: 312.9
Partially vaccinated: 91.5
Fully vaccinated: 29.5
Past two weeks, cases hospitalized per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (September 2nd to 15th):
Not vaccinated: 43.2
Partially vaccinated: 8.4
Fully vaccinated: 1.2
After factoring for age, people not vaccinated are 35.1 times more likely to be hospitalized than those fully vaccinated.
Outbreaks
There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks.
The outbreaks at Menno Home (Fraser Health), Opal by Element (Vancouver Coastal Health) and Sunset Lodge (Island Health) have been declared over.
There are a total of 20 active outbreaks, including:
Long-term Care: Northcrest Care Centre, Westminster House, Menno Terrace East (Fraser Health), Arbutus Care Centre, Louis Brier Home and Hospital (Vancouver Coastal Health), Village at Mill Creek – second floor, Cottonwoods Care Centre, Brookhaven Care Centre, Spring Valley Care Centre, Kamloops Seniors Village, Hillside Village, The Hamlets at Westsyde, Joseph Creek Care Village (Interior Health) and Jubilee Lodge (Northern Health)
Acute Care: Chilliwack General Hospital (Fraser Health), Fort St. John Hospital (Northern Health) and Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (Interior Health)
Assisted or Independent Living: David Lloyd Jones, Sun Pointe Village and Hardy View Lodge (Interior Health)
Island Health:
Island Health reported 102 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 619 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 309 │Total Cases: 3121
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 249 │ Total Cases: 3484
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 61 │Total Cases: 1030
33 people remain in hospital with 13 in ICU.
There have been no new deaths in the Island Health region today, and a total of 58 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
To date, 86.5% of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 78.9% have received their second dose.
In addition, 87.0% of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose and 79.8% have received their second dose.
To date, 7,675,294 (+16,851) doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC; 3,659,495 (+7,462) of which are second doses.
Left to right: Randall Garrison (NDP), Doug Kobayashi (Liberal), Harley Gordon (Green Party), Rob Anderson (PPC) /Photo compiled by Victoria Buzz]
The 44th Canadian federal elections are just days away, which means it’s the last chance to cast your ballots.
On September 20th, residents in the Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke riding will be heading to their nearest polling stations to take part in the democratic process and elect an MP to represent the electoral district in Ottawa.
Here’s a breakdown of the five major candidates running for election in Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke:
Green Party
Harley Gordon is the Green Party’s candidate for the Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke riding.
His focus, much like the Green Party’s, is on climate change, ending fossil fuels, and a renaissance of the green, renewable energy sector.
Gordon has also been a strong advocate for ending old-growth logging in the Fairy Creek area near Port Renfrew.
#Oldgrowth cutblocks near @SaveFairyCreek are going to be logged today. . There isn't time left. They are worth more standing. We need legislation to protect endangered ecosystems. .https://t.co/7DijIUabU4
Doug Kobayashi is running as a Liberal candidate advocating for a greater green technology and renewable energy sector for the Westshore area.
Kobayashi and Liberal leader, Justin Trudeau, have both pledged for better care for Seniors, announcing 9$ billion in funding to address shortfalls in long-term care settings during the campaign.
Kobayashi was an Aerospace Engineering Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force and is recognized for his contribution to the Westshore business community.
New Democratic Party
Randall Garrison, the incumbent MP, is the New Democratic Party’s candidate for Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke.
He has held his seat since 2011.
Garrison is is the party’s LGBTQ2+ spokesperson and sponsored the bill that added transgender rights to the human rights section of the Criminal Code and the Canadian Human Rights Code.
Garrison is also the NDP’s critic on national defence, advocating for strong training, equipment, and support for Canadian Forces.
His platform echoes leader Jagmeet Singh’s policies, with particular emphasis on housing, health care, employment, and climate change action.
Rob Anderson is the candidate for the newest political party in Canada picking up steam: the People’s Party of Canada (PPC).
The PPC is running in this election as an alternative, anti-establishment and anti-vaccine passport right-wing party that bills themselves as the only party who believes in personal choice with minimal government interference.
Anderson echoes his party’s statements and vows to be an “alternative to the establishment threat coming from Ottawa.”
Conservative Party
Laura Frost is the Conservative Party candidate for Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke.
Frost is an environmental researcher who works with the federal and provincial governments on land management. She has a PhD in Geography from UVic on wildfire research with climate links and a Master of Science on approaches to degraded land restoration through indigenous knowledge. She is a registered Professional Forester.
Frost believes that her professional experiences, education, high ethics, and core beliefs will enable her to make a substantive contribution to our community, and indeed Canadians, as your Member of Parliament.
She chose the Conservative Party for its platform of fiscal conservatism, clear, jargon-free language and for matching her own views.
Her top priorities she sees for the Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke are affordable housing and a critical shortage of medical specialists. The opioid crisis and animal welfare is another priority of hers.
A hot tub with friends is always a good time, but make it floating on the open ocean with views of the inner harbour and the Gorge Waterway? Next level.
On Canada’s first ever fleet of hot tub boats, you can immerse yourself in an epic experience on the water with your friends – the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a night out, or show your guests a unique side of Victoria.
If you haven’t checked them out for yourself yet, you’re in luck – we’re giving away a hot tub boat experience for 6 people, and you’ll find contest details below!
The Hot Tub Boats have their hot water maintained by an onboard stove, which is heated by briquettes – the boats are also cleaned, disinfected and filled with fresh hot clean water before every rental.
Included in your trip is two bottles of water per person, a bluetooth speaker for hot tub tunes, and dry bags supplied for snacks and electronics!
Each cruise is 1.5 hours long, with a 30 minute orientation beforehand – the hardest part is picking who you want to be captain of the boat.
Hot Tub Boat Victoria’s operating area is between the Johnson Street Bridge and up the waterway, and typically, people get to the Selkirk trestle area for a little hang out time before heading back.
You can book your cruise online today, which is $65 per person for adults, and $45 per person for kids age 12-18.
Check out our Victoria Buzz team having a blast on our own experience below!
This Saturday, September 18th, join the Victoria Flying Club to celebrate 75 years! Everyone is invited to attend the club’s open house where they will be able to meet flight instructors, staff and club members, tour civilian and military aircrafts and more.
Door prizes are also available to be won, including an hour of flight time with a Victoria Flying Club instructor for the general public and a free hour and a half use of one of the club’s recreational aircrafts for members.
Burgers and refreshments will also be available for purchase between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. so make sure to save room for some grub!
Where: 101-1852 Casno Road, Victoria Flying Club, next to the Victoria International Airport’s control tower.
After being closed for nearly two years, Hecklers is back to fill your comedy needs. Every Saturday night enjoy a comedian followed by Comedy Here Often?’s The Late show.
Where: 123 Gorge Road East, Hecklers Bar and Grill
When: Bryan O’Gorman: 7 p.m., Saturday, Comedy Here Often? The Late Show: 10 p.m., Saturday
Tickets: $20. Tickets can be purchased online here.
Visiting Sooke Country Market is a perfect Saturday morning activity. Browse through the vendors selling everything from fresh produce, jewelry, gardening supplies and more.
2021 marks Moss Street Market’s 30th season in operation. If you prefer contactless pick up, you can visit the online Moss Street Market to pick up your order.
Visitors to Westshore Town Centre his weekend will be greeted by the Living Floral Pillar, made of flowers locally grown right here on Vancouver Island.
The centerpiece is part of a national “moment making” initiative happening at QuadReal’s retail properties across the country.
Where: Westshore Town Centre
When: Saturday, September 18th and Sunday September 19th
Tours of Craigdarroch are back! Tours are available Friday, Saturday and Sunday with tickets purchased in advance. Proceeds from tickets fund the ongoing castle restoration projects.
For more information on tickets, prices and to book your tour, visit the Craigdarroch Castle website here.
No, you haven’t been transported back in time, this is real! Legacy Drive-In has announced showtimes for their outdoor theatre at Westshore Motorsports Park.
This weekend, see Pulp Fiction and the Iron Giant from the comfort of your car as you enjoy food by Westshore Burger Co.
Tickets must be purchased in advance and it is recommended patrons arrive 30 minutes before showtime to ensure they get the best spot.
Where: Westshore Motorsports Park (formerly Western Speedway) 2207 Millstream Road
When: Pulp Fiction, Friday September 17th at 9 p.m., The Iron Giant, Sunday September 19th at 7:45 p.m.
The Victoria Bicycle Music Festival is a free, pedal-powered mobile music festival!
The event’s fourth year will feature music from Ms.PAN!K, Nostic & Nicki, DJ Nova Jade, Niloo, Pesewa, Lelolai FAM, Sofía Sol, Shauntelle DC, and TEALIYE/Brianna Bear.
The Sidney Street Market is back! After a prolonged COVID-19 absence, the market has returned to a new location at the Mary Winspear Centre. While you’re there, be sure to check out Glory Bakehouse for some delicious brownies.
Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., every Sunday through October 10th
As restrictions ease, workout classes are finally re-opening and going back to regular capacity.
If you are interested in trying something new but want to try out some different workouts before committing to a lot of money we have a list of 15 new-member deals at local fitness studios!
BC was recently named Canada’s #1 staycation destination! Which means we are envied by the rest of Canada for our beautiful views, nature and relaxing environment.
Plan a staycation on our very own island with this list of 10 unique Airbnb getaways right here at home!
From the creators of the ‘Islands Passport’ comes a brand new addition, the ‘Distillery Passport’. The passport includes a complimentary flight and deals at 37 distilleries across British Columbia, with 14 of them located on Vancouver Island alone!
The Distillery Passport is $47.99 and can be purchasedonline.
Where: Vendors across Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and throughout BC!
When: Available July 21st at 9 a.m., and can be used until June 2022.
On a local subreddit, r/VictoriaBC, user fyrite asked the public to share their favourite local dishes, the go-tos, the ones people can’t live without.
Victoria delivered, and over 300 recommendations were posted to the thread.
Fyrite took the recommendations and created a mass spreadsheet and map to allow the suggestions to be easily accessible and enjoyed by everyone!
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, location has a huge impact on the quality of your running experience. Pick a cool morning or break out the running shoes later in the day when everything cools down. If you’re not sure where to go for your run, we have created a list of 10 scenic routes just waiting for you to explore!
West Shore RCMP are warning drivers of the wet weather after a series of incidents involving vehicle collisions that occurred in a matter of two hours on Friday morning.
At 6 a.m., a BC Transit bus rolled over travelling southbound on the Trans Canada Highway near Thetis Lake while attempting to avoid a possible hazard caused by a vehicle.
The bus was empty when the incident occurred, save the driver. The driver was taken to hospital by ambulance to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.
An hour later, around 7 a.m., RCMP responded to a two-vehicle head-on collision at the intersection of Wale Road and Goldstream Avenue resulting in one driver being transported to hospital by ambulance.
Around the same time, a three vehicle collision near Goldstream Avenue resulted in a rear-ender. No injuries were reported but heavy traffic delayed tow trucks attending the area.
Then around 7:40 a.m., West Shore RCMP were called to the intersection of Langford Parkway and Phipps Road after a female pedestrian was hit by a vehicle. The pedestrian was not seriously injured and RCMP reported that the driver of the vehicle remained on scene to cooperate with the investigation.
Westshore RCMP have provided tips for drivers in this weather:
Use your headlights but avoid using your high beams. Headlights help make you visible to other drivers and pedestrians but high beams can reflect back and reduce your ability to see other road users.
Don’t use cruise control in the rain. If you hydroplane in cruise control your wheels can reach an excessive speed while they’re not in contact with the road, which means you’ll be jolted forward once the wheels make contact again.
Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front. The three-second rule applies in good weather but you should double it to six seconds for light rain/fog and triple it to nine seconds for heavy rain/fog. If the vehicle in front of you is a commercial vehicle or a bus, leave even more room.
Slow down. Posted speed limits assume good road and weather conditions so go below the limit to say safe in wet weather and low visibility.
Beware of other vehicles around you. Larger vehicles such as trucks, buses and trailers are especially affected by heavy rain.
Adjust your planned travel time to include sufficient time to fully demist/defog all your windows.
As we head into Autumn make sure you stay safe out there, Vancouver Island!
Island Health has announced the COVID-19 outbreak at Sunset Lodge long-term care home is now over.
On August 27th, three staff members tested positive for COVID-19. In total, 15 staff and 21 residents tested positive for the virus as a result of the outbreak.
Unfortunately, the outbreak also resulted in six resident deaths.
Island Health has implemented several strategies to prevent and respond to COVID-19 in long-term care, acute care, assisted living, and licensed facilities.
Recent rounds of follow-up testing for residents and staff of Sunset Lodge have resulted in negative COVID-19 tests.
As a result of the outbreak being declared over, the following will occur at Sunset Lodge:
Extensive cleaning, as part of standard end-of-outbreak protocols
Social visits will resume on the first and second floor on September 17th
Social visits will resume on the third floor on September 20th
Admissions and transfers will resume on September 20th
Resident movement around the home will resume
Diligent infection prevention measures and appropriate use of personal protective equipment will continue
[Left to right: Sabina Singh (NDP), David Busch (Conservative), Elizabeth May (Green Party), Sherri Moore-Arbour (Liberal)/Photo compiled by Victoria Buzz]
The 44th Canadian federal elections are just days away, which means it’s the last chance to cast your ballots.
This Monday September 20th, Saanich-Gulf Islands residents will be heading to their nearest polling stations to take part in the democratic process and elect an MP to represent the electoral district in Ottawa.
Here’s a breakdown of the five major candidates running for election in Saanich-Gulf Islands:
David Busch is the Conservative Party candidate hoping to represent Saanich-Gulf Islands in the House of Commons in the upcoming elections.
Busch holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Biochemistry and Nursing from Laurentian University as well as a Juris Doctor of Law from the University of Alberta.
Busch’s platform focuses on the environment, the cost of living and health care.
Elizabeth May is the Green Party candidate for the Saanich-Gulf Islands electoral district. Although she resigned as Green Party leader in 2019, she still remains as parliamentary leader in the house.
Elizabeth May has a law degree from Dalhousie University and was the first first elected Member of Parliament, representing Saanich-Gulf Islands in 2011. She was then re-elected in 2015.
The Green Party’s platform focuses on tackling the climate crisis, building a sustainable economy and taking action toward reconciliation and dismantling systemic racism.
Sherri Moore-Arbour is the Liberal Party of Canada candidate representing Saanich-Gulf Islands in the 2021 elections.
Moore-Arbour is a locally elected school trustee, service club member and community builder as well as co-founder and Principal of a national public affairs firm.
Her platform includes advocating for more women and people of colour to be elected in politics. As a Metis woman, she stresses the importance of having more Indigenous Members of Parliament to play a key role in Reconciliation.
You can view Moore-Arbour’s platform website here.
Are you looking to kick-off your career in the ever-growing hospitality industry?
Look no further than Four Points by Sheraton Victoria Gateway, where they go above and beyond in everything they do; and are looking for employees who share the same passion.
At Four Points by Sheraton, they’re inspired by their guests and one another – and are driven to make things better.
They’re on the hunt for people who have a genuine drive to improve their life and the lives of those around them, with a focus on guest experience in one of the largest industries in Greater Victoria.
Four Points by Sheraton Victoria Gateway is nestled in Langford, with a total of 117 guest rooms, and is a popular hotel for business travelers and families alike.
The Vancouver Island destination is currently hiring for Housekeeping Room Attendants, as well as an Evening Janitorial Cleaner, with a starting wage of $18/hr.
From crisp, pressed linens, to perfectly placed pillows, to a sparkling mirror, every detail adds up to an experience guests feel great about because they know they’re in good hands while staying at the Sheraton.
Benefits of working at Four Points by Sheraton Victoria Gateway include:
Excellent employee benefits and premium wages including extended health care and dental
[Left to right: Nick Loughton (Green), Laurel Collins (NDP), Nikki Macdonald (Liberal), John Randal Phillips (PPC))/Photo compiled by Victoria Buzz/Not Pictured: Hannah Hodson (Conservative)]
The 44th Canadian federal election is just days away now.
On September 20th, Victoria residents will be heading to their nearest polling stations to take part in the democratic process and elect an MP to represent the electoral district in Ottawa.
Here’s a breakdown of the five major candidates running for election in Victoria:
The federal Conservatives announced their candidate in the riding of Victoria in late August.
Hannah Hodson is a former Clark staffer, and a transgender Canadian whose intention is to advance LGBTQ+ rights, protect the environment, and manage the affordability and housing crises.
While federally the Conservative Party of Canada is neck-and-neck with Trudeau’s Liberals, the Victoria riding has historically been a different story.
The NDP and Liberals have had a stronghold over the Victoria riding for more than three decades.
The Conservatives and Hodson hope their plan appeals to voters in Victoria, but concerns over the Conservative Party’s commitment to reconciliation and Caucasus members’ values are often cited in the lack of young people supporting the party.
See the Conservative Party of Canada’s platform here.
Nick Loughton is the Green candidate for Victoria hoping to get a seat in parliament campaigning with a mandate of affordable housing, living wages, universal health care ,climate action, and Indigenous truth and reconciliation.
Voting for myself is so humbling. At the start of this year, I had no idea I would run for MP. Now, I am focused on fighting for representation for Victoria. It’s time for real action on the climate, healthcare, and affordability in our community. #BeDaring#cdnpoli#Elxn44pic.twitter.com/ieXLQrcQQh
With the endorsement by former BC Green leader, Andrew Weaver, it appears Liberal candidate, Nikki Macdonald, will make this race for Victoria riding a close one again.
With a PhD in Ocean Climate Policy, MacDonald represents a challenge to the incumbent MP, Laurel Collins.
Macdonald is running for the second time after campaigning for the Liberals in 2019. In her previous showing, she placed third behind the Greens and NDP, but increased the Liberals’ vote share by over 10 per cent compared to 2015.
She sits on the board of directors for the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and the Mount Work Coalition.
Macdonald’s main issues of concern for this election involve climate change and the opioid crisis.
Justin Trudeau had hoped the snap election would give him the majority government he said was needed to get out of this COVID-19 pandemic swiftly, amid other reasons, but since calling the election Liberals have been deadlocked in a tight race with the Conservatives.
The incumbent MP for the NDP and their environment and climate-change critic, Laurel Collins, is once again running in Victoria.
Collins echoes the NDP’s climate change policies and has shown her commitment to the cause as a member of the CRD Regional Water Supply Commission and a director on the board of the Green Municipal Fund.
FACT CHECK: "Singh’s claims check out. Canada’s GHG emissions have grown since Trudeau took office… And among Canada’s G7 allies, it has been the worst performer when it comes to cutting emissions during the Liberals’ time leading the country." https://t.co/VLEi29I5le
She has also taught courses in Social Justice, Sociology, and Social Inequality at the University of Victoria.
Collins says if re-elected, she will continue to advocate for stronger climate change legislation, and address issues involving the opioid and housing crises.
The NDP are holding a stronghold in BC with poll numbers staying steady compared to the 2019 election.
Leader, Jagmeet Singh, is the most likeable leader, according to polls, and he has campaigned for big ideas, including free dental care, but has been criticized for a lack of plan.
Phipps founded the first modernized pedicab company in Canada in his home of Victoria: Kabuki Kabs.
Phipps pursued a career as a Financial Planner and is campaigning on how “elite classes” stick it to the lower classes through greed and unprincipled processes.
The PPC party has been gaining in the federal polls as of late, and you can read their platform here.
The BC Ministry of Health reported 706 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, September 16th.
There have been 177,186 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began.
New cases were reported in these health regions:
Vancouver Coastal Health: 105
Fraser Health: 203
Island Health: 81
Interior Health: 213
Northern Health: 104
Resident outside Canada: 0
There are currently 5,844 active cases of COVID-19 in the province.
169,083 people who tested positive have recovered.
There are now a total of 291 people in hospital due to COVID-19, 134 of whom are in critical care — ICU or acute care units.
4 new people have died from COVID-related causes, making the provincial death toll 1,877.
Data by Vaccination Status:
From September 8th to 14th, people not fully vaccinated accounted for 76.1% of cases. From September 1st to 14th they accounted for 86.4% of hospitalizations.
Past week cases (September 8th to 14th):
Total: 4,914
Not vaccinated: 3,347 (68.1%)
Partially vaccinated: 391 (8.0%)
Fully vaccinated: 1,176 (23.9%)
Past two weeks cases hospitalized (September 1st to 14th):
Total: 390
Not vaccinated: 318 (81.5%)
Partially vaccinated: 19 (4.9%)
Fully vaccinated: 53 (13.6%)
Past week,cases per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (September 8th to 14th):
Not vaccinated: 320.9
Partially vaccinated: 98.6
Fully vaccinated: 30
Past two weeks,cases hospitalized per 100,000 population after adjusting for age (September 1st to 14th):
Not vaccinated: 44.0
Partially vaccinated: 7.6
Fully vaccinated: 1.2
After factoring for age, people not vaccinated are 35.7 times more likely to be hospitalized than those fully vaccinated.
Outbreaks
There has been one new health-care facility outbreak at Menno Terrace East (Fraser Health).
The outbreaks at Nicola Meadows and Rose Woods Village (Interior Health) have been declared over.
There are a total of 23 active outbreaks, including:
Long term care: Northcrest Care Centre, Menno Home, Westminster House, Menno Terrace East (Fraser Health), Arbutus Care Centre, Louis Brier Home and Hospital, Opal by Element (Vancouver Coastal Health), Village at Mill Creek – second floor, Cottonwoods Care Centre, Brookhaven Care Centre, Spring Valley Care Centre, Kamloops Seniors Village, Hillside Village, The Hamlets at Westsyde, Joseph Creek Care Village (Interior Health), Sunset Lodge (Island Health) and Jubilee Lodge (Northern Health)
Acute Care: Chilliwack General Hospital (Fraser Health), Fort St. John Hospital (Northern Health) and Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (Interior Health)
Assisted or Independent Living: David Lloyd Jones, Sun Pointe Village and Hardy View Lodge (Interior Health)
Island Health:
Island Health reported 81 new cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Island region and 581 active cases.
Breakdown of cases on Vancouver Island:
South Vancouver Island Active cases: 262 │Total Cases: 3048
Central Vancouver Island Active cases: 258 │ Total Cases: 3450
North Vancouver Island Active cases: 61 │Total Cases: 1023
24 people remain in hospital with 13 in ICU.
There have been no new deaths in the Island Health region today, and a total of 58 deaths on Vancouver Island.
Vaccinations
To date, 86.3% of eligible people 12 and older in B.C. have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 78.8% received their second dose.
In addition, 86.8% of all eligible adults in B.C. have received their first dose and 79.7% received their second dose.
To date, 7,658,443 (+14,470) doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in BC; 3,652,033 (+7,317) of which are second doses.
Monsters Haunted House is back once more, at a brand new location that’s sure to spook even the bravest ghouls and goblins this year.
This Halloween, you’re invited to experience the old Landmark University Heights Movie theatre in a new, spine-tingling way.
In October, the space that once held the movie theatre will be transformed by Monsters Haunted House to this year’s eerie ‘University Frights Theatre’ event.
The LandMark University Heights movie theatre closed in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A few months later, in July 2020, it was announced the theatre’s closure would be permanent.
Previously, movie theatres have filled this space in the mall since 1987.
Now the theatre is closed, the space abandoned…The perfect place for some spooky fun!
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in October from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., ghosts and ghouls will be ready to meet you at every turn. Closer to Halloween, more dates are available to visit University Freights Theatre.
Tickets for University Freights Theatre are now available via the event’s EventBrite page.
Tickets will be limited to comply with provincial health guidelines and groups will be spaced out to encourage physical distancing.
If a night is not sold out, “walk-ups” will be available by cash only.
The event reminds all attendees that weapons and costume masks are not permitted.
Get your tickets now, they are sure to sell out fast!
Where: Landmark Movie Theater, University Heights Shopping Centre – 3980 Shelbourne Street
When: 6 p.m. to 11 p.m,Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October. More dates are available around Halloween!
Tickets: $20 +tax each. Tickets can be purchased here.
The Monsters Haunted House will be following whatever provincial guidelines for COVID-19 that are in place at the time of the event. No customers are allowed into the haunt wearing masks or faces painted, aside from face masks for COVID-19.
Nanaimo, your trips to downtown Vancouver are about to get much faster!
Downtown Nanaimo and downtown Vancouver will now be connected by a “high speed” passenger ferry service—details regarding the service will be announced in the near future.
The Nanaimo Port Authority (NPA), the Snuneymuxw First Nation and Conqora Capital Partners Inc. made the announcement Thursday morning.
“After many years of talking about a fast passenger service coming to Nanaimo, it is with great pleasure that the Nanaimo Port Authority announces our unique partnership with SFN (Snuneymuxw First Nation) and Conqora to bring this vital service to Nanaimo,” said Nanaimo Port Authority chair Donna Hais in a statement Thursday.
A Recognition, Cooperation and Benefits Agreement with the Snuneymuxw First Nation has been established by Conqora to allow passenger ferry service to operate in the nation’s territory.
Snuneymuxw First Nation Chief Mike Wyse said he is delighted to announce the partnership.
“Our Nation is delighted to announce our tripartite partnership that brings the long awaited fast-passenger ferry to our region,” said Snuneymuxw First Nation Chief Mike Wyse on Thursday.
Health Canada has now approved both the Pfzier and Moderna vaccines for anyone over the age of 12.
The vaccines were first authorized for use in December 2020 under an interim order which allowed a speedier rollout—that order expired on September 16th.
Now Pfizer and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are authorized for use in Canada under the Food and Drug Regulations.
This is welcome news as BC has implemented their BC Vaccine Card as a means to incentivize those who have not been vaccinated and avoid more restrictive COVID-19 measures.
To date, close to 80% of eligible British Columbians are fully-immunized.
With their approval, the vaccines have now transitioned to new names too.
“These are only name changes. There are no changes to the vaccines themselves,” Health Canada said.
Moderna’s vaccine will now be called “Spikevaxx,” Pfizer’s vaccine will now be known as “Comirnaty,” and AstraZeneca’s will be called “Vaxzevria.
As of this publication, over 84 per cent of Canadians over the age of 12 have received at least one COVID-19 shot, and over 77 per cent of eligible Canadians are now fully vaccinated.
A popular attraction for locals and tourists at Goldstream Trestle Park has been restricted to the public.
Permanent barriers have now been constructed around the rail infrastructure at popular trestle bridge as part of a joint suicide prevention strategy in the West Shore and Sooke areas.
Hikers in the area have said that there are no clear markers going up to the popular spot until people reach the barriers.
The Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division (CMHA BC) and the Island Corridor Foundation collaborated to provide safety improvements in and around the railway infrastructure.
The construction of the barriers comes as earlier this year municipal, provincial, community-sector, first responder, education, elected and railway infrastructure leaders coordinated and mobilized resources to better respond to crisis and suicide in the area.
“We know that communities have a critical role to play in its prevention by providing support and a safety net to people who are experiencing a suicidal crisis. Lives can be saved with the appropriate services, supports, and means [sic] safety measures in place,” said CMHA BC CEO, Jonny Morris in March.
The CMHA BC has been working to raise awareness about services and supports, reinforce links between systems of care, and improve the safety in and around railway infrastructure.
This weekend, there is something new at Westshore Town Centre.
Visitors to the centre this weekend will be greeted by the Living Floral Pillar, made of flowers locally grown right here on Vancouver Island.
The centerpiece is part of a national “moment making” initiative happening at QuadReal’s retail properties across the country.
The initiative, a collaboration with Toronto Flower Market and Platinum Floral Design, aims to celebrate seasonal blooms grown by growers local to each area and provide a beautiful, architectural centerpiece at each shopping venue.
“It is our firm belief that what makes a ‘place’ extra special are these unforgettable, joyful moments that place customers and communities at the forefront,” says Andy Clydesdale, EVP of Retail at QuadReal Property Group.
“Now, more than ever, we are fixated on ‘moment making’ at our retail properties . . . creating these unique moments wholly designed to connect with our customers on an emotional level.”
Westshore Town Centre’s Living Floral Pillar will be on display this weekend, September 18th and 19th.
UPDATE: Over the weekend, Saanich Police located and arrested the suspect alleged to have committed a sexual assault on another bus passenger on September 10th.
Police said a 43-year-old Saanich man was arrested then later released with conditions and a court date for later this year.
This incident is still under investigation.
— Original:
Saanich Police have released photos of a suspect following an alleged sexual assault on a BC Transit bus last week.
In a media release, police say the incident occurred on route 39 BC Transit bus which left the University of Victoria exchange at around 1:40 p.m., Friday September 10th.
According to police, the suspect approached the woman during transit and committed a sexual assault.
Both the woman and the man exited the bus just after 2 p.m. at the Royal Oak Exchange, where she was reportedly followed for a short time by the suspect before he disappeared.
Police said the woman was not physically injured during the incident.
The suspect is described as Black, between the ages 20-30 years old, 5’8” to 5’11” tall with a medium build.
At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black skater-style hat, a long-sleeved shirt, black pants, and a dark coloured backpack.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact Saanich Police at 250-475-4321. You can also report anonymously through the Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
One of Victoria’s beloved bakeries announced it will be soon be closing its doors after only 5 years in business.
Open since 2016, the Cookie Guy announced on Facebook they will be closing their doors, citing many challenges due to COVID-19.
The specialty shop specialized in making freshly baked cookies delivered warm directly to customers.
The Cookie Guy, founded by Matthew Davis in 2016, first opened in downtown Victoria then later relocated to Uptown Shopping Centre where they are currently located.
“Thank you for 5 years of unbelievable support. I regret to share with you the news of our closure,” Davis said in a Facebook post.
“During the pandemic, we’ve faced and overcome many challenges. But it makes sense for us to close for now.”
The store will reopen this Friday, Saturday and Sunday — or until they deplete their ingredients.
“We hope it makes it through to the end of the weekend but no guarantees,” Davis said.
While we may be saying goodbye to the Cookie Guy for now, there were hints in the statement suggesting a possible comeback.
Please read for details to get your last bit of Cookie Guy cookies! We will be closing our doors at the end of this weekend with the hopes of being back in the future! Thank you Victoria, BC!
Vancouver Island’s fire ban is set to expire on Thursday.
BC’s Coastal Fire Centre will be lifting its ban on open fires on the southern Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands starting at noon on Thursday, September 16th.
According to the BC Coastal Fire Centre, recent rainfall and lower temperatures have reduced the risks or potentials for an out-of-control fire.
The southern Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands were some of the last regions in the jurisdiction to have an open fire ban.
Starting Thursday, campfires and category 2 fires, such as, fireworks, sky lanterns, binary exploding targets and burn barrels, can resume.
BC Coastal Fire asks the public to be mindful of fire safety. If you choose to have a fire, clear an area for a fire and be prepared to extinguish it.
BC’s campfire ban was first put into effect on June 28th, as wildfires burned across the province and temperatures hit their peak during a record-breaking heat wave.
The province declared a state of emergency due to wildfires on June 20, and ended the state of emergency on Tuesday.
In total, Vancouver Island experienced two out-of-control fires—Mount Hayes and Copper Canyon near Duncan.
Two COVID-19 flight exposures on Vancouver Island have been added to British Columbia’s Centre for Disease Control’s website.
The first flight departed from Victoria on August 30th bound for Vancouver and the second flight departed on September 6th from Victoria to Vancouver.
The flights and their affected rows are:
Harbour Air 228, Victoria to Vancouver
WestJet 3356, Victoria to Vancouver
All passengers on a domestic flight with a COVID-19 case should self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days.
The information on affected flights is posted publicly on the BCCDC website.
Today, BC health officials announced a total of 5,791 active cases in the province.
For the past eighteen months, we have all been dreaming of vacation.
Hotel robes, all you can eat breakfast and trips to the spa fill our dreams as we hope to one day make those wishes a reality.
With restrictions easing across the country, including inter-provincial travel, Canadians may be looking to finally take an extravagant holiday, one they haven’t been able to take in almost two years.
If you aren’t sure where to go, Travel and Leisure has released the top 10 resort hotels in Canada, based on a survey for their World’s Best categories.
Each year, Travel and Leisure asks their readers to share their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, spas, airlines and more.
Hotels are rated on their facilities, location, service, food and overall value and awarded a score based on the results.
This year, six of the ten resorts recognized in the survey were located in Western Canada, with three each found in British Columbia and Alberta.
Tofino’s own Wickaninnish Inn was voted second amongst Canadian voters, scoring a 97.0 in the survey.
The Inn is located on the rocky edge of Chesterman’s Beach’s northern cape. The highly regarded Inn sits only a few minutes south of Tofino and is central to explore Pacific Rim National Park and Clayoquot Sound.
The Wickaninnish Inn includes accommodations, a fine dining restaurant, an award winning spa and more.
Yesterday, the world lost one of Canada’s funniest: Norm Macdonald.
Macdonald, 61, was living privately with cancer for nine years. It was confirmed on Tuesday he died in Los Angeles from leukemia.
Macdonald came to prominence with his role on Saturday Night Live from 1993 to 1998, where he mostly manned the desk of the ‘Weekend Update’ segment.
From there he made appearances in movies throughout the early 2000’s but has become known for his iconic appearances on late night shows such as Late Night with David Letterman and Conan.
Known as a ‘comic’s comic,’ Macdonald had a dry wit and held a stoic philosophy on comedy that divides audiences everywhere to this day.
Macdonald subverted the classic setup-punchline joke audiences are used to and would hold audience attention with an ineffable pause and reflection. His voice was unique and his jokes were strange. His long pauses and vacant stare served as a type of wink to his amass following as he precluded jokes that would leave you wanting more, only to realize there is nothing left.
Macdonald never claimed to have the answers to life’s problems, all he wanted to do was tell jokes, and that’s what he did.
He even joked about Victoria.
In a video posted to YouTube, from an appearance on Late Night with David Letterman, Macdonald tells a story about playing Scrabble one night at a bed & breakfast on Vancouver Island with Old Harold Delaney.
Victoria Buzz is thinking about Norm Macdonald and his impact on the comedy world, and we’re sad to see him go.
But we’re happy he was here when we had him. Thanks Norm, rest easy.
Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps and Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins have released a joint statement commenting on the growing number of assaults involving VicPD officers in the past few months.
“On behalf of the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board, we denounce the assaults against VicPD officers that have happened in the past few weeks,” the statement reads.
“VicPD officers are working hard in extraordinarily challenging circumstances to serve all members of our community. They need to be safe as they do their important work.”
The statement comes after a number of incidents where officers have either been assaulted or haven’t been adequately equipped dealing with a mental health crisis.
Following Sunday’s shooting that took one man’s life, Victoria City Police Union (VCPU) also released a statement commenting on the violence over the past six months, specifically calling on local governments for more action to combat mental health crisis management.
“The VCPU is not happy with the proverbial ‘revolving door’ that seems to be increasing the likelihood that people in crisis are not getting the support they need,” said VCPU Union Spokesperson, Matt Waterman.
Mayor Helps and Mayor Desjardins acknowledged the “gaps” in the justice and health system.
“Our officers are being left to pick up the pieces and fill the gaps in what are revolving doors in the criminal justice system and the health system. There are not enough services available for people, nor are there the right kinds of services for those who most need them,” their statement read.
Mayor Helps and Mayor Desjardins also referenced Bill C-75—a piece of federal legislation adopted as a “principle of restraint” that requires police to release an accused person at the earliest possible opportunity.
This amendment to the Criminal Code was established in 2019 with a renewed focus on release factoring in the likelihood of an arrested individual attending court, their risk to public safety, and the impact on confidence in the criminal justice system.
In a separate statement from an incident where an officer was headbutted this week, VicPD cited Bill C-75 in the suspect’s subsequent release from custody.
“This [Bill C-75] is founded in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms that every person has the right to liberty and the presumption of innocence pre-trial. Police are also asked to consider the circumstances of Indigenous or vulnerable persons in the process, in order to address the disproportionate impacts that the criminal justice system has on these populations,” the release from VicPD said.
With increased assaults against officers persisting, it’s unclear what action can or will be taken by public officials to assure the safety of VicPD officers, and both Mayors did not provide any significant conclusion to their statement.
“It is clearly not working to release people with high needs back into the community without the appropriate support and resources to keep them and the public safe, and our officers out of harm’s way,” the joint statement concluded.
So far this week, there have been two assaults against police officers, one of which involved an off-duty officer.
